Snehal Patel, DDS, MD

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Lorton & Springfield, Virginia

Wisdom Teeth Removal in Northern Virginia

For many patients, the development of wisdom teeth is an uncomfortable part of growing up. In Lorton and Springfield, oral surgeon Dr. Snehal Patel offers wisdom tooth removal for patients throughout Northern Virginia. From your first visit to every appointment afterward, our team at Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery helps patients grow into healthy, beautiful smiles.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Also known as the third molars, wisdom teeth are the last teeth to develop in a smile, typically emerging when patients reach their late teens to early twenties. For some patients, these new teeth emerge without issue, fitting comfortably in the jaw. However, most patients do not have enough room in the arch to support the development of new molars. Lack of space causes wisdom teeth to grow incorrectly, often pushing neighboring teeth out of the way. This causes crowding, and compromises the alignment of teeth.

How are Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth extraction is often a quick outpatient procedure. Patients are first given sedation, then an incision is made the gums above the tooth. If the molar is still trapped within bone tissue, our oral surgeon will remove a small part of the jaw bone in order to reach the tooth. The molar is then cut into smaller pieces for easy removal and the surgery site is closed. In the days following wisdom teeth extraction, patients can expect some soreness and swelling in the area near the surgical site. While most are able to return to work within the next day, our oral surgeon recommends that individuals take it easy and avoid solid food for the first few days following surgery.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Costs

Self pay option for wisdom teeth can range anywhere from $1500-$4000 depending on the level of impaction of the teeth, and if you choose general anesthesia or not.

The Complications of Wisdom Teeth

Even if you don’t feel them, wisdom teeth can severely damage the surrounding teeth, resulting in serious dental issues. When teeth are moved out of position, new spaces and crevices are created, making it difficult to thoroughly clean and remove plaque from the smile. Your normal bite is also disrupted, compromising the function of teeth.

While some wisdom teeth may never emerge, others may become trapped in the bone or soft tissue. Not only is this very uncomfortable, but impacted wisdom teeth can create spaces for bacteria and debris to become trapped, leading to an increased risk of cavity and gum disease.

To help avoid these complications, our oral surgeon in Northern Virginia recommends proactive wisdom teeth extractions once patients begin experiencing the following symptoms:

Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums

Jaw pain or swelling around the jaw

Difficulty opening the jaw

Having Third Molar Surgery | Video by The American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

Looking for Wisdom Tooth Removal in Northern Virginia? Contact Us!

With specialty offices located in Lorton and Springfield, Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery proudly services the needs of patients throughout Prince William County, Alexandria, and Annandale. For more information about wisdom teeth removal, call our oral surgeon today and schedule your consultation.